A NEW carers’ centre has opened its doors at the University Hospital of North Tees.

Located in the main entrance of the Stockton hospital, the centre offers information and support to patients, their relatives and friends.

It boasts an open-plan reception area plus private interview and complementary therapy rooms. It will also offer personal support in the form of befrienders, small groups and counsellors.

The centre was established by the George Hardwick Foundation which already runs two carers’ centres in Stockton and Middlesbrough. Andy McMann, manager of the foundation, said: “All the advice and information needed by carers and those they care for will be in the one spot. We hope people will just call in or be referred by medical and nursing staff.

“Everyone is welcome. It could be a temporary problem such as a broken leg or a longer-term illness such as cancer or Alzheimer’s. We will be there when people first realise they need support.”

Denise Jenkins, carer and patient facilitator at the centre, said: “The response has been smashing, everyone is very positive about it.

“It’s just a case of letting everyone know that we’re here.”

The George Hardwick Foundation is a registered charity, named after the Boro footballing legend. Its patron is George’s widow Jennifer who looked after George during his long illness.

There are about 19,000 carers in Stockton and 21,000 in Middlesbrough and the foundation deals with 300 calls and visits each week.

Chief executive of North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Trust, Alan Foster said: “We're delighted to welcome the George Hardwick Foundation carers’ centre. There is no doubt it will be a valuable resource.